Project Location: Vernal, UT
Project Start: August 2023
Project Completion: July 2024
Project Cost: $2,740,374
Key Project Team Members:
Cheryl Meier, USSD1 Executive Director
Scott Hardman, Uintah County Road Supervisor
Jermiah Falslev, Consolidated Paving and Concrete
Bart Jensen, Jones & DeMille Engineering
Braden Negus, Jones & DeMille Engineering
Mark Jensen, Jones & DeMille Engineering
Project Overview
The Diamond Mountain Road Project was originally part of an annual pavement preservation project for the UTSSD, which began in 2021. The project consisted of 14 miles of rehabilitation and preservation — 5.5 miles of severe asphalt damage and deterioration and 8.5 miles of asphalt repair and chip seal. A complete road reconstruction was suggested on the 5.5-mile section but quickly became unrealistic due to costs. The team collaborated and recommended a CTBC treatment, followed by a double chip seal applied over the top.
What Makes the Project Unique
Consolidated Paving and Concrete was selected and began work in August of 2023. As they began the pulverization process, they quickly ran into large rocks within the depths called out for the treatment. As the project team came together, many phone calls and various ideas were discussed to find a way to complete the project within budget. Experts in the field of milling and pulverization were contacted, and a path forward was chosen. Specialized equipment was brought in from Chicago to break the large rocks into smaller pieces, making them manageable for the pulverizer to process as part of the CTBC treatment. The process still had minor issues to resolve, but it ultimately resulted in a better final product and improved ride quality.
Safety Record
This road garnered significant political attention due to its location and traffic volume. Traffic control was a daily priority, ensuring property owners and recreational users maintained access throughout the day. No incidents were reported during the project.
Project Quality
As the CTBC portion concluded, we were able to complete 78,835 square yards of cement treated base course and used 865 tons of cement powder.
Although the ride quality was significantly improved compared to the original road, Consolidated recommended using a trim mill to further enhance it. The decision was made to proceed with this suggestion, and the resulting ride smoothness became a standout feature of the improved roadway.
